EP0893335A2 - Grip for a bicycle shift control device - Google Patents

Grip for a bicycle shift control device Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0893335A2
EP0893335A2 EP98113714A EP98113714A EP0893335A2 EP 0893335 A2 EP0893335 A2 EP 0893335A2 EP 98113714 A EP98113714 A EP 98113714A EP 98113714 A EP98113714 A EP 98113714A EP 0893335 A2 EP0893335 A2 EP 0893335A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
grip
peripheral surface
rotatable member
recesses
handgrip according
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP98113714A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0893335B1 (en
EP0893335A3 (en
EP0893335B2 (en
Inventor
Takuro Yamane
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Shimano Inc
Original Assignee
Shimano Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=25413321&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=EP0893335(A2) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by Shimano Inc filed Critical Shimano Inc
Publication of EP0893335A2 publication Critical patent/EP0893335A2/en
Publication of EP0893335A3 publication Critical patent/EP0893335A3/en
Publication of EP0893335B1 publication Critical patent/EP0893335B1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0893335B2 publication Critical patent/EP0893335B2/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62K—CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
    • B62K23/00—Rider-operated controls specially adapted for cycles, i.e. means for initiating control operations, e.g. levers, grips
    • B62K23/02—Rider-operated controls specially adapted for cycles, i.e. means for initiating control operations, e.g. levers, grips hand actuated
    • B62K23/04—Twist grips
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62L—BRAKES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES
    • B62L1/00—Brakes; Arrangements thereof
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62L—BRAKES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES
    • B62L1/00—Brakes; Arrangements thereof
    • B62L1/02—Brakes; Arrangements thereof in which cycle wheels are engaged by brake elements
    • B62L1/06—Brakes; Arrangements thereof in which cycle wheels are engaged by brake elements the wheel rim being engaged
    • B62L1/10—Brakes; Arrangements thereof in which cycle wheels are engaged by brake elements the wheel rim being engaged by the elements moving substantially parallel to the wheel axis
    • B62L1/14—Brakes; Arrangements thereof in which cycle wheels are engaged by brake elements the wheel rim being engaged by the elements moving substantially parallel to the wheel axis the elements being mounted on levers pivotable about different axes
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
    • Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
    • Y10T74/20207—Multiple controlling elements for single controlled element
    • Y10T74/20256—Steering and controls assemblies
    • Y10T74/20268—Reciprocating control elements
    • Y10T74/2028—Handle bar type
    • Y10T74/20287—Flexible control element
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
    • Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
    • Y10T74/20576—Elements
    • Y10T74/20732—Handles
    • Y10T74/2078—Handle bars
    • Y10T74/20828—Handholds and grips

Definitions

  • the present invention is directed to bicycle shift control devices and, more particularly, to a grip for a twist-grip shift control device which conforms more closely to a rider's hand.
  • Twist-grip shift control devices are sometimes used to control various types of bicycle transmissions. Examples of such devices are disclosed in JP 44-26571; USP 3,633,437; USP 4,900,291 and USP 5,197,927. Such devices typically include a generally annular rotatable member that is mounted around the bicycle handlebar coaxially with the handlebar axis, wherein rotation of the rotatable member with the palm of the hand controls the pulling and releasing of the transmission control cable.
  • a rotatable handgrip for a twist-grip shift control device includes a rotatable member and a flexible grip disposed over the rotatable member.
  • One or more spaces are defined between an inner peripheral surface of the grip and an outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member so that the grip bends radially inwardly in response to pressure from a hand part (palm, finger, thumb, etc.) so as to generally conform to the hand part.
  • the space may be formed by a recess formed on the inner peripheral surface of the grip, on the outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member, a combination of recesses on the grip and the rotatable member, or through some other means.
  • a rotatable grip constructed according to the present invention increases traction between the palm of the hand and the rotatable grip without requiring ribs or nubs.
  • the present invention also may be employed advantageously in a handgrip which uses ribs and nubs, because the space between the grip and the rotatable member allow the ribs and nubs to yield to the pressure of the rider's hand. This, in turn, reduces or eliminates the incidences of pain and fatigue.
  • Figure 1 is an oblique view of a particular embodiment of a twist-grip shift control device 10 according to the present invention mounted together with a brake lever assembly 9.
  • shift control device 10 includes a housing 12 mounted around a handlebar 8, a rotatable handgrip 16 structured for rotation around an axis X coaxial with handlebar 8, a pulley 21 for pulling and releasing an inner wire 11a of control cable 11, and a pulley retaining member 28 for retaining pulley 21 to housing 12.
  • Pulley retaining member 28 may include a framed opening 28a for selectively displaying a numeral disposed on pulley 21 indicating the currently selected gear.
  • a motion transmitting mechanism (not shown) is disposed between rotatable handgrip 16 and pulley 21 for transmitting rotation of handgrip 16 to pulley 21.
  • the motion transmitting mechanism may be constructed, for example, according to copending U.S. patent application number 08/854,520 filed May 12, 1997 entitled “Bicycle Shift Control Device” by Takuro Yamane and incorporated herein by reference. Since the motion transmitting mechanism does not form a part of the present invention, a detailed description of that mechanism shall be omitted.
  • Brake lever assembly 9 includes a brake lever 9a pivotably mounted to a brake lever bracket 9b which, in turn, is mounted around handlebar 8 in close proximity to (e.g., adjacent) housing 12 of shift control device 10. Brake lever 9a is connected to a brake control cable 9c for controlling a brake device in a conventional manner.
  • handgrip 16 includes a rotatable member 50 and a flexible grip 54.
  • rotatable member 50 includes a generally cylindrical main body 56 having an outer peripheral surface 58; a generally frustoconical intermediate portion 62, and a larger generally cylindrical portion 66 which interfaces with the motion transmitting mechanism within housing 12.
  • a plurality of grip engaging members in the form of ribs 70 elongated in the direction of the handlebar axis X extend radially outwardly from outer peripheral surface 58 of main body 56.
  • ribs 70 are evenly spaced in the circumferential direction of outer peripheral surface 58.
  • Each rib includes a pair of side surfaces 74 that extend from a side surface 82 of frustoconical portion 62 in the direction of the handlebar axis X, and a top surface 86 that inclines slightly radially inwardly from side surface 82 of frustoconical portion 62 to a rib end surface 90 located at an intermediate portion of outer peripheral surface 58.
  • the plurality of ribs 70 define a corresponding plurality of valleys 94 disposed between each pair of adjacent ribs 70, where the bottom floor 92 of each valley 94 is formed by outer peripheral surface 58 of main body 56.
  • outer peripheral surface 58 has a constant radius of curvature R from handlebar axis X along its entire axial length so that outer peripheral surface 58 has the shape of a straight cylinder.
  • the floor 92 of each valley 94 likewise has a constant radius of curvature as shown in Figure 2B.
  • flexible grip 54 snugly fits around outer peripheral surface 58 of rotatable member 50, and an outer peripheral surface 96 of grip 54 includes a plurality of gripping projections 98 to further facilitate traction between the rider's hand and grip 54 (and hence ) rotatable handgrip 16.
  • the inner peripheral surface 100 of grip 54 includes a plurality of rotatable member engaging recesses 104 that are evenly spaced in the circumferential direction of inner peripheral surface 100. Each rotatable member engaging recess 104 is shaped for snugly fitting to a corresponding rib 70 so that grip 54 is nonrotatably secured to rotatable member 50.
  • a plurality of recesses 108 disposed between spaced apart pairs of inner peripheral surface portions 109 likewise are evenly spaced along the inner peripheral surface of grip 54.
  • Each recesses 108 cooperates with a corresponding valley floor 92 for forming a plurality of spaces 110 as shown in Figure 4.
  • Inner peripheral surface portions 109 are disposed adjacent to their corresponding ribs 70 and contact both the rib 70 and the adjacent valley floor 92 to snugly fit grip 54 to rotatable member 50.
  • Figure 5 is a side cross sectional view of the rotatable member 50 and flexible grip 54 illustrating how the flexible grip 54 bends in response to a gripping force exerted by a hand.
  • a finger 120 presses radially inwardly to firmly grasp rotatable grip 16.
  • the portions of grip 54 disposed over spaces 110 form dents 124 and 126 which conform to finger 120 in response to the radially inwardly directed pressure of finger 120.
  • the portions of grip 54 disposed over spaces 110 bend radially inwardly as shown in Figure 5 for partially or substantially reducing the volume of the corresponding space 110.
  • dents 124 and 126 enhance the traction between the rider's hand and rotatable handgrip 16 by conforming more closely to the rider's hand. Also, there are no sharp edges jamming into the rider's hand as in the prior art rib/nub designs. Furthermore, the yielding nature of grip 54 also cushions the rider's hand to avoid the excessive pressures caused by prior art rib/nub designs, thus further reducing the risk of pain or fatigue.
  • Figure 6 is a side cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a rotatable handgrip 16A according to the present invention using a different rotatable member 50A and flexible grip 54A.
  • grip 54A includes a plurality of rotatable member engaging members 55A projecting radially inwardly from the inner peripheral surface 100A.
  • Rotatable member 50A includes a plurality of grip engaging recesses 57A formed in outer peripheral surface 58A, wherein each rotatable member engaging member 55A is disposed in a corresponding grip engaging recess 57A.
  • a plurality of recesses 108A disposed between adjacent pairs of rotatable member engaging members 55A are evenly spaced along the inner peripheral surface 100A of grip 54A.
  • Each recess 108A cooperates with a corresponding portion of the outer peripheral surface 58A of rotatable member 50A for forming a plurality of spaces 110A that function in the same manner as spaces 110 in the first embodiment.
  • Figure 7 is a side cross sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a rotatable handgrip 16B according to the present invention using a different rotatable member 50B and flexible grip 54B.
  • the rotatable member 50B includes a plurality of grip engaging members in the form of ribs 70B projecting radially outwardly from the outer peripheral surface 58B
  • the grip 54B includes a corresponding plurality of rotatable member engaging recess 104B
  • each grip engaging member 70B is disposed in a corresponding rotatable member engaging recess 104B.
  • grip 54B does not have recesses corresponding to recesses 108 in the first embodiment.
  • a plurality of evenly spaced recesses 150 are formed in the outer peripheral surface 58B of rotatable member 50B. Each recess 150 cooperates with the inner peripheral surface 100B of grip 54B for forming a plurality of spaces 110B that function in the same manner as spaces 110 in the first embodiment.
  • Figure 8 is a side cross sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a rotatable handgrip 16C according to the present invention using a different rotatable member 50C and flexible grip 54C.
  • the grip 54C includes a plurality of rotatable member engaging members 55C projecting radially inwardly from the inner peripheral surface 100C
  • the rotatable member 50C includes a plurality of grip engaging recesses 57C formed in the outer peripheral surface 58C
  • each rotatable member engaging member 55C is disposed in a corresponding grip engaging recess 57C.
  • a plurality of evenly spaced recesses 150C are formed in the outer peripheral surface 58C of rotatable member 50C.
  • Each recess 150C cooperates with the inner peripheral surface 100C of grip 54C for forming a plurality of spaces 110C that function in the same manner as spaces 110 in the first embodiment.

Abstract

A rotatable handgrip (16) for a twist-grip shift control device (10) includes a rotatable member and a flexible grip disposed over the rotatable member. One or more spaces are defined between an inner peripheral surface of the grip and an outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member so that the grip bends radially inwardly in response to pressure from a hand part (palm, finger, thumb, etc.) so as to generally conform to the hand part. The space may be formed by a recess formed on the inner peripheral surface of the grip, on the outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member, a combination of recesses on the grip and the rotatable member, or through some other means.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to bicycle shift control devices and, more particularly, to a grip for a twist-grip shift control device which conforms more closely to a rider's hand.
Twist-grip shift control devices are sometimes used to control various types of bicycle transmissions. Examples of such devices are disclosed in JP 44-26571; USP 3,633,437; USP 4,900,291 and USP 5,197,927. Such devices typically include a generally annular rotatable member that is mounted around the bicycle handlebar coaxially with the handlebar axis, wherein rotation of the rotatable member with the palm of the hand controls the pulling and releasing of the transmission control cable.
For reliable operation of twist-grip shift control devices, it is desirable to have adequate traction between the palm of the hand and the rotatable member. USP 5,564,316 and USP 5,584,213 discuss the use of nubs and elongated ribs on a flexible cover to increase the traction between the hand and the rotatable member. However, while such nubs and ribs may help improve traction, they also tend to jam into the rider's hand, thus creating pain and fatigue.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a rotatable member for a twist-grip shift control device wherein the grip portion of the rotatable member conforms closely to a rider's hand to increase traction between the palm of the hand and the rotatable member, but which significantly decreases the risk of pain and fatigue. In one embodiment of the present invention, a rotatable handgrip for a twist-grip shift control device includes a rotatable member and a flexible grip disposed over the rotatable member. One or more spaces are defined between an inner peripheral surface of the grip and an outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member so that the grip bends radially inwardly in response to pressure from a hand part (palm, finger, thumb, etc.) so as to generally conform to the hand part. The space may be formed by a recess formed on the inner peripheral surface of the grip, on the outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member, a combination of recesses on the grip and the rotatable member, or through some other means. A rotatable grip constructed according to the present invention increases traction between the palm of the hand and the rotatable grip without requiring ribs or nubs. However, the present invention also may be employed advantageously in a handgrip which uses ribs and nubs, because the space between the grip and the rotatable member allow the ribs and nubs to yield to the pressure of the rider's hand. This, in turn, reduces or eliminates the incidences of pain and fatigue.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • Figure 1 is an oblique view of a particular embodiment of a bicycle twist-grip shift control device according to the present invention mounted together with a brake lever assembly;
  • Figures 2A and 2B are front and side views, respectively, of a particular embodiment of a rotatable member according to the present invention used in the twist-grip shift control device of Figure 1;
  • Figures 3A and 3B are front and side views, respectively, of a particular embodiment of a flexible grip according to the present invention that is used with the rotatable member shown in Figures 2A and 2B;
  • Figure 4 is a side cross sectional view illustrating the flexible grip shown in Figures 3A and 3B installed on the rotatable member shown in Figures 2A and 2B;
  • Figure 5 is a side cross sectional view of the rotatable member and flexible grip illustrating how the flexible grip bends in response to a gripping force exerted by a hand;
  • Figure 6 is a side cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a rotatable member and flexible grip according to the present invention;
  • Figure 7 is a side cross sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a rotatable member and flexible grip according to the present invention; and
  • Figure 8 is a side cross sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a rotatable member and flexible grip according to the present invention.
    • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
    Figure 1 is an oblique view of a particular embodiment of a twist-grip shift control device 10 according to the present invention mounted together with a brake lever assembly 9. As shown in Figure 1, shift control device 10 includes a housing 12 mounted around a handlebar 8, a rotatable handgrip 16 structured for rotation around an axis X coaxial with handlebar 8, a pulley 21 for pulling and releasing an inner wire 11a of control cable 11, and a pulley retaining member 28 for retaining pulley 21 to housing 12. Pulley retaining member 28 may include a framed opening 28a for selectively displaying a numeral disposed on pulley 21 indicating the currently selected gear. A motion transmitting mechanism (not shown) is disposed between rotatable handgrip 16 and pulley 21 for transmitting rotation of handgrip 16 to pulley 21. The motion transmitting mechanism may be constructed, for example, according to copending U.S. patent application number 08/854,520 filed May 12, 1997 entitled "Bicycle Shift Control Device" by Takuro Yamane and incorporated herein by reference. Since the motion transmitting mechanism does not form a part of the present invention, a detailed description of that mechanism shall be omitted.
    Brake lever assembly 9 includes a brake lever 9a pivotably mounted to a brake lever bracket 9b which, in turn, is mounted around handlebar 8 in close proximity to (e.g., adjacent) housing 12 of shift control device 10. Brake lever 9a is connected to a brake control cable 9c for controlling a brake device in a conventional manner.
    As shown in Figures 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B and 4, handgrip 16 includes a rotatable member 50 and a flexible grip 54. As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, rotatable member 50 includes a generally cylindrical main body 56 having an outer peripheral surface 58; a generally frustoconical intermediate portion 62, and a larger generally cylindrical portion 66 which interfaces with the motion transmitting mechanism within housing 12. A plurality of grip engaging members in the form of ribs 70 elongated in the direction of the handlebar axis X extend radially outwardly from outer peripheral surface 58 of main body 56. In this embodiment, ribs 70 are evenly spaced in the circumferential direction of outer peripheral surface 58. Each rib includes a pair of side surfaces 74 that extend from a side surface 82 of frustoconical portion 62 in the direction of the handlebar axis X, and a top surface 86 that inclines slightly radially inwardly from side surface 82 of frustoconical portion 62 to a rib end surface 90 located at an intermediate portion of outer peripheral surface 58. The plurality of ribs 70 define a corresponding plurality of valleys 94 disposed between each pair of adjacent ribs 70, where the bottom floor 92 of each valley 94 is formed by outer peripheral surface 58 of main body 56. In this embodiment, outer peripheral surface 58 has a constant radius of curvature R from handlebar axis X along its entire axial length so that outer peripheral surface 58 has the shape of a straight cylinder. As a result, the floor 92 of each valley 94 likewise has a constant radius of curvature as shown in Figure 2B.
    As shown in Figures 3A, 3B, and 4, flexible grip 54 snugly fits around outer peripheral surface 58 of rotatable member 50, and an outer peripheral surface 96 of grip 54 includes a plurality of gripping projections 98 to further facilitate traction between the rider's hand and grip 54 (and hence ) rotatable handgrip 16. The inner peripheral surface 100 of grip 54 includes a plurality of rotatable member engaging recesses 104 that are evenly spaced in the circumferential direction of inner peripheral surface 100. Each rotatable member engaging recess 104 is shaped for snugly fitting to a corresponding rib 70 so that grip 54 is nonrotatably secured to rotatable member 50. A plurality of recesses 108 disposed between spaced apart pairs of inner peripheral surface portions 109 likewise are evenly spaced along the inner peripheral surface of grip 54. Each recesses 108 cooperates with a corresponding valley floor 92 for forming a plurality of spaces 110 as shown in Figure 4. Inner peripheral surface portions 109 are disposed adjacent to their corresponding ribs 70 and contact both the rib 70 and the adjacent valley floor 92 to snugly fit grip 54 to rotatable member 50.
    Figure 5 is a side cross sectional view of the rotatable member 50 and flexible grip 54 illustrating how the flexible grip 54 bends in response to a gripping force exerted by a hand. As shown in Figure 5, a finger 120 presses radially inwardly to firmly grasp rotatable grip 16. Because of the flexibility of grip 54, the portions of grip 54 disposed over spaces 110 form dents 124 and 126 which conform to finger 120 in response to the radially inwardly directed pressure of finger 120. When further pressure is applied by finger 120, the portions of grip 54 disposed over spaces 110 bend radially inwardly as shown in Figure 5 for partially or substantially reducing the volume of the corresponding space 110. Because of this yielding nature of grip 54, dents 124 and 126 enhance the traction between the rider's hand and rotatable handgrip 16 by conforming more closely to the rider's hand. Also, there are no sharp edges jamming into the rider's hand as in the prior art rib/nub designs. Furthermore, the yielding nature of grip 54 also cushions the rider's hand to avoid the excessive pressures caused by prior art rib/nub designs, thus further reducing the risk of pain or fatigue.
    Figure 6 is a side cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a rotatable handgrip 16A according to the present invention using a different rotatable member 50A and flexible grip 54A. In this embodiment, grip 54A includes a plurality of rotatable member engaging members 55A projecting radially inwardly from the inner peripheral surface 100A. Rotatable member 50A includes a plurality of grip engaging recesses 57A formed in outer peripheral surface 58A, wherein each rotatable member engaging member 55A is disposed in a corresponding grip engaging recess 57A. A plurality of recesses 108A disposed between adjacent pairs of rotatable member engaging members 55A are evenly spaced along the inner peripheral surface 100A of grip 54A. Each recess 108A cooperates with a corresponding portion of the outer peripheral surface 58A of rotatable member 50A for forming a plurality of spaces 110A that function in the same manner as spaces 110 in the first embodiment.
    Figure 7 is a side cross sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a rotatable handgrip 16B according to the present invention using a different rotatable member 50B and flexible grip 54B. As in the first embodiment, the rotatable member 50B includes a plurality of grip engaging members in the form of ribs 70B projecting radially outwardly from the outer peripheral surface 58B, the grip 54B includes a corresponding plurality of rotatable member engaging recess 104B, and each grip engaging member 70B is disposed in a corresponding rotatable member engaging recess 104B. However, in this embodiment, grip 54B does not have recesses corresponding to recesses 108 in the first embodiment. Instead, a plurality of evenly spaced recesses 150 are formed in the outer peripheral surface 58B of rotatable member 50B. Each recess 150 cooperates with the inner peripheral surface 100B of grip 54B for forming a plurality of spaces 110B that function in the same manner as spaces 110 in the first embodiment.
    Figure 8 is a side cross sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a rotatable handgrip 16C according to the present invention using a different rotatable member 50C and flexible grip 54C. In this embodiment, the grip 54C includes a plurality of rotatable member engaging members 55C projecting radially inwardly from the inner peripheral surface 100C, the rotatable member 50C includes a plurality of grip engaging recesses 57C formed in the outer peripheral surface 58C, and each rotatable member engaging member 55C is disposed in a corresponding grip engaging recess 57C. A plurality of evenly spaced recesses 150C are formed in the outer peripheral surface 58C of rotatable member 50C. Each recess 150C cooperates with the inner peripheral surface 100C of grip 54C for forming a plurality of spaces 110C that function in the same manner as spaces 110 in the first embodiment.
    While the above is a description of various embodiments of the present invention, further modifications may be employed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, the size, orientation, location and shape of the various components may be changed as desired. Material may be added or removed from the parts as well. Thus, the scope of the invention should not be limited by the specific structures disclosed. Instead, the true scope of the invention should be determined by the following claims. Of course, although labeling symbols are used in the claims in order to facilitate reference to the figures, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the constructions in the appended figures by such labeling.

    Claims (26)

    1. A rotatable handgrip (16, 16A) for a bicycle shifter comprising:
      a rotatable member (50, 50A), and
      a flexible grip (54, 54A) disposed over the rotatable member (50, 50A),
      characterized in that a space (110, 110A) is defined between an inner peripheral surface of the grip (54, 54A) and an outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member (50, 50A) so that the grip (54, 54A) dents radially inwardly in response to pressure from a hand part so as to generally conform to the hand part; and wherein a recess (108, 108A) is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the grip (54, 54A) for forming the space (110, 110A).
    2. A rotatable handgrip (16B, 16C) for a bicycle shifter comprising:
      a rotatable member (50B, 50C), and
      a flexible grip (54B, 54C) disposed over the rotatable member (50B, 50C),
      characterized in that a space (110B, 110C) is defined between an inner peripheral surface of the grip (54, 54A) and an outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member (50, 50A) so that the grip (54, 54A) dents radially inwardly in response to pressure from a hand part so as to generally conform to the hand part; and wherein a recess (150) is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member for forming the space (110B, 110C).
    3. The handgrip according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the grip (54, 54A, 54B, 54C) bends radially inwardly into the space (110, 110A, 110B, 110C) in response to pressure from the hand part.
    4. The handgrip according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that a plurality of the recesses (108, 108A) are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the grip (54, 54A) for forming a plurality of the spaces.
    5. The handgrip according to claim 4, characterized in that the plurality of recesses (108, 108A) are disposed evenly along the inner peripheral surface of the grip (54, 54A).
    6. The handgrip according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the rotatable member (50) includes a grip engaging member projecting radially outwardly from the outer peripheral surface, wherein the grip includes a rotatable member engaging recess, and wherein the grip engaging member is disposed in the rotatable member engaging recess.
    7. The handgrip according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the grip includes a rotatable member engaging member projecting radially inwardly from the inner peripheral surface, wherein the rotatable member includes a grip engaging recess, and wherein the rotatable member engaging member is disposed in the grip engaging recess.
    8. The handgrip according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the rotatable member includes a plurality of elongated ribs projecting radially outwardly from the outer peripheral surface, wherein the grip includes a plurality of rotatable member engaging recesses, and wherein the plurality of ribs are disposed in corresponding ones of the plurality of rotatable member engaging recesses.
    9. The handgrip according to claim 8, characterized in that a plurality of the recesses are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the grip for forming a plurality of the spaces.
    10. The handgrip according to claim 9, characterized in that the plurality of ribs are disposed evenly in a circumferential direction along the outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member.
    11. The handgrip according to claim 10, characterized in that the plurality of recesses are disposed evenly in the circumferential direction along the inner peripheral surface of the grip.
    12. The handgrip according to claim 11, characterized in that a single recess is disposed between each adjacent pair of the plurality of ribs.
    13. The handgrip according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the grip includes a plurality of elongated ribs projecting radially inwardly from the inner peripheral surface, wherein the rotatable member includes a plurality of grip engaging recesses, and wherein the plurality of ribs are disposed in corresponding ones of the plurality of grip engaging recesses.
    14. The handgrip according to claim 13, characterized in that a plurality of the recesses are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the grip for forming a plurality of the spaces.
    15. The handgrip according to claim 14, characterized in that the plurality of ribs are disposed evenly in a circumferential direction along the inner peripheral surface of the grip.
    16. The handgrip according to claim 15, characterized in that the plurality of recesses are disposed evenly in the circumferential direction along the inner peripheral surface of the grip.
    17. The handgrip according to claim 2, characterized in that a plurality of the recesses are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member (50B, 50C) for forming a plurality of the spaces.
    18. The handgrip according to claim 17, characterized in that the plurality of recesses are disposed evenly along the outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member.
    19. The handgrip according to claim 8, characterized in that a plurality of the recesses are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member for forming a plurality of the spaces.
    20. The handgrip according to claim 19, characterized in that the plurality of ribs are disposed evenly in a circumferential direction along the outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member.
    21. The handgrip according to claim 20, characterized in that the plurality of recesses are disposed evenly in a circumferential direction along the outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member.
    22. The handgrip according to claim 21, characterized in that a single recess is disposed between each adjacent pair of the plurality of ribs.
    23. The handgrip according to claim 13, characterized in that a plurality of the recesses are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member for forming a plurality of the spaces.
    24. The handgrip according to claim 23, characterized in that the plurality of ribs are disposed evenly in a circumferential direction along the inner peripheral surface of the grip.
    25. The handgrip according to claim 24, characterized in that the plurality of recesses are disposed evenly in the circumferential direction along the outer peripheral surface of the rotatable member.
    26. The handgrip according to claim 15 or 25, characterized in that a single recess is disposed between each adjacent pair of the plurality of ribs.
    EP98113714A 1997-07-25 1998-07-22 Grip for a bicycle shift control device Expired - Lifetime EP0893335B2 (en)

    Applications Claiming Priority (2)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    US08/900,935 US6101895A (en) 1997-07-25 1997-07-25 Grip for a bicycle shift control device
    US900935 1997-07-25

    Publications (4)

    Publication Number Publication Date
    EP0893335A2 true EP0893335A2 (en) 1999-01-27
    EP0893335A3 EP0893335A3 (en) 2000-07-19
    EP0893335B1 EP0893335B1 (en) 2004-04-14
    EP0893335B2 EP0893335B2 (en) 2009-03-25

    Family

    ID=25413321

    Family Applications (1)

    Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
    EP98113714A Expired - Lifetime EP0893335B2 (en) 1997-07-25 1998-07-22 Grip for a bicycle shift control device

    Country Status (6)

    Country Link
    US (4) US6101895A (en)
    EP (1) EP0893335B2 (en)
    JP (1) JP2915404B2 (en)
    CN (1) CN1090128C (en)
    DE (1) DE69823105T3 (en)
    TW (1) TW422797B (en)

    Cited By (6)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    US6389929B1 (en) * 1999-05-20 2002-05-21 Sram Corporation Elongated rotatable handgrip
    AT411050B (en) * 2001-12-28 2003-09-25 Hirt Robert Throttle grip with flexible casing
    US7363685B2 (en) 2002-10-28 2008-04-29 Black & Decker Inc. Handle assembly for tool
    US7496989B2 (en) 2002-10-28 2009-03-03 Black & Decker Inc. Handle assembly for tool
    EP2100805A1 (en) 2008-03-12 2009-09-16 Campagnolo Srl Cover sheath for a grippable bicycle component and grippable component equipped with such a sheath
    US7730589B2 (en) 2005-05-27 2010-06-08 Black & Decker Inc. Power tool with gel grip including an integral backing

    Families Citing this family (55)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    DE10025883A1 (en) * 2000-05-25 2001-11-29 Sram De Gmbh Integrated twist grip switch
    US6561058B1 (en) * 2000-11-20 2003-05-13 Richard A. Steinke Cushioning hand grip
    JP4537594B2 (en) * 2001-02-07 2010-09-01 本田技研工業株式会社 Brush cutter
    US7032475B2 (en) * 2001-06-07 2006-04-25 Shimano Inc. Hydraulic gear shift mechanism
    US6718844B2 (en) * 2002-02-13 2004-04-13 Shimano, Inc. Twist-grip shift control device for a bicycle
    US7150205B2 (en) * 2002-04-04 2006-12-19 Shimano, Inc. Handgrip shifter for a bicycle
    US7011600B2 (en) 2003-02-28 2006-03-14 Fallbrook Technologies Inc. Continuously variable transmission
    US20040168538A1 (en) * 2003-02-28 2004-09-02 Shimano, Inc. Twist grip for operating a bicycle transmission
    US7325812B2 (en) * 2003-05-14 2008-02-05 Eastway Fair Company Limited Grip assembly for clutch cap, front sleeve, rear sleeve and method of making
    US7770262B2 (en) * 2003-05-19 2010-08-10 Robert Bosch Tool Corporation Cushion grip handle
    US7104154B2 (en) 2003-05-29 2006-09-12 Shimano Inc. Bicycle shift control device
    US7013751B2 (en) * 2003-05-29 2006-03-21 Shimano Inc. Bicycle shift control device
    DE102004014888A1 (en) * 2004-03-26 2005-10-20 Bayerische Motoren Werke Ag operating element
    US7861380B2 (en) * 2004-05-07 2011-01-04 Tubular Fabricators Industry, Inc. Replaceable hand grip
    US20050250605A1 (en) * 2004-05-07 2005-11-10 Tubular Fabricators Industry, Inc. Replaceable grip handle
    BRPI0516562A (en) 2004-10-05 2008-10-28 Fallbrook Technologies Inc continuously variable transmission
    US20060272126A1 (en) * 2005-06-01 2006-12-07 Burgess Andrew A Spinning handle grip assembly for towable luggage item
    JP2007076545A (en) * 2005-09-15 2007-03-29 Shimano Inc Bicycle speed change device
    CN102407766B (en) 2005-10-28 2014-11-19 福博科知识产权有限责任公司 Electromotive drives
    DK1954959T3 (en) 2005-11-22 2013-08-26 Fallbrook Ip Co Llc Continuously variable transmission
    CA2976893C (en) 2005-12-09 2019-03-12 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Continuously variable transmission
    EP1811202A1 (en) 2005-12-30 2007-07-25 Fallbrook Technologies, Inc. A continuously variable gear transmission
    US20070178793A1 (en) * 2006-01-27 2007-08-02 Gerello Brian C Wood panel with water vapor-permeable polyester layer
    US7882762B2 (en) * 2006-01-30 2011-02-08 Fallbrook Technologies Inc. System for manipulating a continuously variable transmission
    EP2125469A2 (en) 2007-02-01 2009-12-02 Fallbrook Technologies Inc. System and methods for control of transmission and/or prime mover
    WO2008100792A1 (en) 2007-02-12 2008-08-21 Fallbrook Technologies Inc. Continuously variable transmissions and methods therefor
    EP2122198B1 (en) 2007-02-16 2014-04-16 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company LLC Method and assembly
    EP2573424A3 (en) 2007-04-24 2017-07-26 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company LLC Electric traction drives
    CA2692476C (en) 2007-07-05 2017-11-21 Fallbrook Technologies Inc. Continuously variable transmission
    US8996263B2 (en) 2007-11-16 2015-03-31 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Controller for variable transmission
    US8321097B2 (en) 2007-12-21 2012-11-27 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Automatic transmissions and methods therefor
    US8535199B2 (en) 2008-06-06 2013-09-17 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Infinitely variable transmissions, continuously variable transmissions, methods, assemblies, subassemblies, and components therefor
    EP2304272B1 (en) 2008-06-23 2017-03-08 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company LLC Continuously variable transmission
    US8818661B2 (en) 2008-08-05 2014-08-26 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Methods for control of transmission and prime mover
    US8469856B2 (en) 2008-08-26 2013-06-25 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Continuously variable transmission
    US8167759B2 (en) 2008-10-14 2012-05-01 Fallbrook Technologies Inc. Continuously variable transmission
    EP3527848B1 (en) 2009-04-16 2022-01-05 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company LLC Stator assembly and shifting mechanism for a continuously variable transmission
    US20100282870A1 (en) * 2009-05-07 2010-11-11 Chin-Yuan Chen Spraying Gun Whose Grip is Positioned Closely
    US20110088504A1 (en) * 2009-10-15 2011-04-21 Falcon Cycle Tech. Co., Ltd. Grip shifter assembly
    US8512195B2 (en) 2010-03-03 2013-08-20 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Infinitely variable transmissions, continuously variable transmissions, methods, assemblies, subassemblies, and components therefor
    US8888643B2 (en) 2010-11-10 2014-11-18 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Continuously variable transmission
    US20130134640A1 (en) * 2011-11-29 2013-05-30 Gina Thaxton Corner and edge cushioning device, system and method of using same
    KR20140114065A (en) 2012-01-23 2014-09-25 폴브룩 인텔렉츄얼 프로퍼티 컴퍼니 엘엘씨 Infinitely variable transmissions, continuously variable transmissions, methods, assemblies, subassemblies, and components therefor
    WO2014172422A1 (en) 2013-04-19 2014-10-23 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Continuously variable transmission
    USD794510S1 (en) 2014-10-29 2017-08-15 Gogoro Inc. Motor scooter and/or toy replica thereof
    USD784788S1 (en) * 2014-11-07 2017-04-25 Gogoro Inc. Vehicle handlebar lever
    USD828310S1 (en) 2014-11-07 2018-09-11 Gogoro Inc. Button of vehicle handlebar
    US10400872B2 (en) 2015-03-31 2019-09-03 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Balanced split sun assemblies with integrated differential mechanisms, and variators and drive trains including balanced split sun assemblies
    US10047861B2 (en) 2016-01-15 2018-08-14 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Systems and methods for controlling rollback in continuously variable transmissions
    TW201825805A (en) 2016-03-18 2018-07-16 福柏克智慧財產有限責任公司 Stator and stator assembly for continuously variable transmission and method for controlling continuously variable transmission
    US10023266B2 (en) 2016-05-11 2018-07-17 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Systems and methods for automatic configuration and automatic calibration of continuously variable transmissions and bicycles having continuously variable transmissions
    US10525315B1 (en) 2018-07-20 2020-01-07 Harry Matthew Wells Grip assembly for sports equipment
    US11215268B2 (en) 2018-11-06 2022-01-04 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Continuously variable transmissions, synchronous shifting, twin countershafts and methods for control of same
    WO2020176392A1 (en) 2019-02-26 2020-09-03 Fallbrook Intellectual Property Company Llc Reversible variable drives and systems and methods for control in forward and reverse directions
    US10888754B2 (en) * 2019-05-16 2021-01-12 Harry Matthew Wells Grip assembly for sports equipment

    Citations (15)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    US588794A (en) 1897-08-24 Handle for tools and bicycle handle-bars
    GB189913291A (en) 1899-06-27 1900-05-05 George Duckworth Roberts An Improved Handle for Cycles, Motor Cars, and the like.
    GB189916576A (en) 1899-08-15 1900-06-16 Harry Adrian Taylor Stoakes Improvements in Pneumatic Handles for Velocipedes, Motor-cars, or other similar Purposes.
    DE675170C (en) 1936-11-11 1939-05-02 Karl Hagebeuker Handle with helically wound air hose
    US3344684A (en) 1965-10-05 1967-10-03 Steere Entpr Inc Grip
    JPS4426571B1 (en) 1965-11-17 1969-11-07
    US3633437A (en) 1969-07-31 1972-01-11 Takuo Ishida Hand control device for speed change gear mechanism of a bicycle
    FR2403172A1 (en) 1977-09-14 1979-04-13 Dupuis Pierre Handle with deforming grip for e.g. tennis racquet - has supple sleeve on shaft and forming volumes contg. small hard balls
    DE3343015A1 (en) 1982-11-29 1984-05-30 Shimano Industrial Co., Ltd., Sakai, Osaka BICYCLE PEDAL
    US4900291A (en) 1988-01-06 1990-02-13 Sram Corporation Bicycle gear shifting method and apparatus
    US5018733A (en) 1988-04-12 1991-05-28 S.A. Donnay International Handgrip for a racket for ball games
    US5193246A (en) 1991-07-23 1993-03-16 Huang Ing Chung Air cushion grip with a cubic supporting structure and shock-absorbing function
    US5197927A (en) 1991-03-20 1993-03-30 Sram Corporation Bicycle derailleur cable actuating system
    US5564316A (en) 1994-03-07 1996-10-15 Sram Corporation Nubbed grip for rotatable bicycle gear shifter
    US5584213A (en) 1994-03-07 1996-12-17 Sram Corporation Rotatable grip for derailleur type bicycle gear shifting system

    Family Cites Families (15)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    US599131A (en) * 1898-02-15 Pneumatic grip or handle
    GB465270A (en) * 1935-11-02 1937-05-03 Denis James O Brien Improvements in or relating to grips or handles
    US2222121A (en) * 1939-08-28 1940-11-19 Benjamin D Leavitt Handle bar grip
    US3189069A (en) * 1963-12-06 1965-06-15 Stanley Works Tool handle with resilient gripping means
    US3340914A (en) * 1965-05-10 1967-09-12 James B Ricks Ratchet grip
    US3713350A (en) * 1971-05-17 1973-01-30 Schwinn Bicycle Co Air cushion handlebar grip
    SU592659A1 (en) * 1975-02-04 1978-02-15 Тульский Машиностроительный Завод Им.В.М.Рябикова Cycle handle-bar grip
    JPS55142143A (en) * 1979-04-20 1980-11-06 Japanese National Railways<Jnr> Anti-vibration grip
    JPS55142142A (en) * 1979-04-20 1980-11-06 Japanese National Railways<Jnr> Anti-vibration grip
    US4768406A (en) * 1986-04-22 1988-09-06 Edwin Fitzwater Torque compensating apparatus
    US4972733A (en) * 1988-12-12 1990-11-27 Textron Inc Shock absorbing grip
    US4969231A (en) * 1989-05-17 1990-11-13 Easco Hand Tools, Inc. Hand tool handle having end cap with indicia
    JPH04260889A (en) * 1991-02-13 1992-09-16 Maeda Kogyo Kk Speed change operating device for bicycle
    US5355552A (en) * 1991-07-23 1994-10-18 Huang Ing Chung Air cushion grip with a cubic supporting structure and shock-absorbing function
    EP0759393B1 (en) * 1995-03-13 2002-08-21 Sakae Co., Ltd. Bicycle and speed change operating device for the same

    Patent Citations (17)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    US588794A (en) 1897-08-24 Handle for tools and bicycle handle-bars
    GB189913291A (en) 1899-06-27 1900-05-05 George Duckworth Roberts An Improved Handle for Cycles, Motor Cars, and the like.
    GB189916576A (en) 1899-08-15 1900-06-16 Harry Adrian Taylor Stoakes Improvements in Pneumatic Handles for Velocipedes, Motor-cars, or other similar Purposes.
    DE675170C (en) 1936-11-11 1939-05-02 Karl Hagebeuker Handle with helically wound air hose
    US3344684A (en) 1965-10-05 1967-10-03 Steere Entpr Inc Grip
    JPS4426571B1 (en) 1965-11-17 1969-11-07
    US3633437A (en) 1969-07-31 1972-01-11 Takuo Ishida Hand control device for speed change gear mechanism of a bicycle
    FR2403172A1 (en) 1977-09-14 1979-04-13 Dupuis Pierre Handle with deforming grip for e.g. tennis racquet - has supple sleeve on shaft and forming volumes contg. small hard balls
    DE3343015A1 (en) 1982-11-29 1984-05-30 Shimano Industrial Co., Ltd., Sakai, Osaka BICYCLE PEDAL
    US4900291A (en) 1988-01-06 1990-02-13 Sram Corporation Bicycle gear shifting method and apparatus
    US4900291B1 (en) 1988-01-06 2000-04-25 Sram Corp Bicycle gear shifting method and apparatus
    US5018733A (en) 1988-04-12 1991-05-28 S.A. Donnay International Handgrip for a racket for ball games
    US5197927A (en) 1991-03-20 1993-03-30 Sram Corporation Bicycle derailleur cable actuating system
    US5197927B1 (en) 1991-03-20 2000-10-17 Sram Corp Bicycle derailleur cable actuating system
    US5193246A (en) 1991-07-23 1993-03-16 Huang Ing Chung Air cushion grip with a cubic supporting structure and shock-absorbing function
    US5564316A (en) 1994-03-07 1996-10-15 Sram Corporation Nubbed grip for rotatable bicycle gear shifter
    US5584213A (en) 1994-03-07 1996-12-17 Sram Corporation Rotatable grip for derailleur type bicycle gear shifting system

    Cited By (6)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    US6389929B1 (en) * 1999-05-20 2002-05-21 Sram Corporation Elongated rotatable handgrip
    AT411050B (en) * 2001-12-28 2003-09-25 Hirt Robert Throttle grip with flexible casing
    US7363685B2 (en) 2002-10-28 2008-04-29 Black & Decker Inc. Handle assembly for tool
    US7496989B2 (en) 2002-10-28 2009-03-03 Black & Decker Inc. Handle assembly for tool
    US7730589B2 (en) 2005-05-27 2010-06-08 Black & Decker Inc. Power tool with gel grip including an integral backing
    EP2100805A1 (en) 2008-03-12 2009-09-16 Campagnolo Srl Cover sheath for a grippable bicycle component and grippable component equipped with such a sheath

    Also Published As

    Publication number Publication date
    EP0893335B1 (en) 2004-04-14
    JPH1191679A (en) 1999-04-06
    DE69823105D1 (en) 2004-05-19
    US6227069B1 (en) 2001-05-08
    US6276231B1 (en) 2001-08-21
    TW422797B (en) 2001-02-21
    US6101895A (en) 2000-08-15
    DE69823105T2 (en) 2004-08-26
    EP0893335A3 (en) 2000-07-19
    EP0893335B2 (en) 2009-03-25
    CN1090128C (en) 2002-09-04
    CN1206669A (en) 1999-02-03
    JP2915404B2 (en) 1999-07-05
    DE69823105T3 (en) 2009-08-27
    US6212972B1 (en) 2001-04-10

    Similar Documents

    Publication Publication Date Title
    US6101895A (en) Grip for a bicycle shift control device
    US5584213A (en) Rotatable grip for derailleur type bicycle gear shifting system
    EP0352732B1 (en) Handlebar-mounted gear change lever
    JP6695126B2 (en) Manual controls for bicycles, especially hydraulic brakes and gearshifts
    EP0047637B1 (en) Cycle control device
    EP1197427A2 (en) Bicycle shifting device
    CA2968801C (en) Rotating handle dynamic brake
    JPH0858414A (en) Grip of manually rotatable type gear shifter for bicycle use
    US20030167871A1 (en) Adjusting apparatus for a bicycle brake control device
    EP0671315B1 (en) Nubbed grip for rotatable bicycle gear shifter
    EP0849150A3 (en) Brake operating device
    EP1452433B1 (en) Twist grip for operating a bicycle transmission
    EP1354793A2 (en) Barend mounted twist shifter with integrated brake actuator for bicycle
    US20080284126A1 (en) Adaptive brake and shift mechanism for a bicycle
    SU1119908A1 (en) Device for controlling bycycle brake
    JP2003134973A (en) Reel leg-fixing device
    US20040238291A1 (en) Braking system activated by flexible cable controls and relative components
    JPS639516Y2 (en)

    Legal Events

    Date Code Title Description
    PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

    AK Designated contracting states

    Kind code of ref document: A2

    Designated state(s): DE FR GB IE IT

    AX Request for extension of the european patent

    Free format text: AL;LT;LV;MK;RO;SI

    PUAL Search report despatched

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009013

    AK Designated contracting states

    Kind code of ref document: A3

    Designated state(s): AT BE CH CY DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE

    AX Request for extension of the european patent

    Free format text: AL;LT;LV;MK;RO;SI

    17P Request for examination filed

    Effective date: 20000816

    AKX Designation fees paid

    Free format text: DE FR GB IE IT

    TPAD Observations filed by third parties

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS TIPA

    17Q First examination report despatched

    Effective date: 20030204

    GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

    GRAS Grant fee paid

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

    GRAA (expected) grant

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

    AK Designated contracting states

    Kind code of ref document: B1

    Designated state(s): DE FR GB IE IT

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: GB

    Ref legal event code: FG4D

    REF Corresponds to:

    Ref document number: 69823105

    Country of ref document: DE

    Date of ref document: 20040519

    Kind code of ref document: P

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: IE

    Ref legal event code: FG4D

    ET Fr: translation filed
    PLBI Opposition filed

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009260

    PLAX Notice of opposition and request to file observation + time limit sent

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNOBS2

    26 Opposition filed

    Opponent name: SRAM DEUTSCHLAND GMBH

    Effective date: 20050113

    PLBB Reply of patent proprietor to notice(s) of opposition received

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNOBS3

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: FR

    Payment date: 20050708

    Year of fee payment: 8

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: IE

    Payment date: 20050713

    Year of fee payment: 8

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: GB

    Payment date: 20050720

    Year of fee payment: 8

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: GB

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20060722

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: IE

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20060724

    RAP2 Party data changed (patent owner data changed or rights of a patent transferred)

    Owner name: SHIMANO INC.

    GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

    Effective date: 20060722

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: IE

    Ref legal event code: MM4A

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: FR

    Ref legal event code: ST

    Effective date: 20070330

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: FR

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20060731

    PUAH Patent maintained in amended form

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009272

    STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

    Free format text: STATUS: PATENT MAINTAINED AS AMENDED

    27A Patent maintained in amended form

    Effective date: 20090325

    AK Designated contracting states

    Kind code of ref document: B2

    Designated state(s): DE FR GB IE IT

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: DE

    Payment date: 20090716

    Year of fee payment: 12

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: IT

    Payment date: 20090717

    Year of fee payment: 12

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: DE

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20110201

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: DE

    Ref legal event code: R119

    Ref document number: 69823105

    Country of ref document: DE

    Effective date: 20110201

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: IT

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20100722